‘From the Ground Up’ Explores the Evolution of Custom Sneakers

From the Ground Up, our brand new sneaker show is back with another episode diving into all things footwear. Last week, we broke down the importance celebrated Nike’s coveted annual event Air Max Day, but this week, we’re taking a deep dive into the custom sneaker market.

For our latest in-depth discussion, host Pete Forester sits down with Highsnobiety’s George Ocampo and creative consultant Gia Seo to argue whether or not custom sneakers should be considered art, and how the influence of social media has impacted the industry.

To give more insight on the legacy of custom sneakers, our sneaker editor and clout history professor Chris Danforth is back dishing out knowledge on the different artistic methods used for customizations by designers over the years, the impact of social media in the market, and how bigger brands like Nike and adidas are jumping on trend.

Peter later catches up with the mind behind @SuperKreep, Kelley Hice, a designer who’s found success reappropriating vintage or designer clothes, especially Louis Vuitton and Gucci. As Hice takes us on a tour through his Brooklyn studio and lengthy designer collections, he offers up major keys on how he found success in the industry through trial and error.

Check out our full in-depth conversation on custom sneakers in the episode above, and be sure to follow us on YouTube for new episodes of From the Ground Up.